Celebrating women in engineering: A Q&A with NWTC engineering graduates
In honor of International Women in Engineering Day, we’re shining a spotlight on four 2025 NWTC graduates who are breaking barriers and building futures in engineering. These four women, standing left to right in the picture above alongside Jill Thiede, associate dean of Trades & Engineering Technologies at NWTC, are:
- Lexie, Automation Engineering Technology and Electro-Mechanical Technology
- Hannah, Biomedical Electronics
- Jakeh, Electro-Mechanical Technology
- Sofia, Automation Engineering Technology and Electro-Mechanical Technology
In this Q&A, Lexie, Hannah, Jakeh, and Sofia share their experiences, challenges, and advice for women considering a career path in engineering.
Why did you choose engineering as your career path?
Lexie: I pursued engineering because I enjoy working with my hands and applying math and science in a practical, hands-on way. Problem-solving, working beyond the confines of a traditional office, and continuously learning are all aspects that drew me to the field.
Hannah: I’ve always been drawn to hands-on activities, especially in motorsports – ATVs, four-wheelers, and dirt bikes. Growing up, I enjoyed working on equipment and never minded getting my hands dirty as it’s one of the best ways to learn. Having family members who guided me through different steps made a huge impact, reinforcing my passion for a meaningful and impactful career in engineering.
Jakeh: I originally wasn’t planning on getting a college degree. Eventually, I didn’t like where I was in life and didn’t have any real direction. One day, I decided to attend a networking business technology conference.
I talked with many of the attendees at the event and asked why they were here and what type of skills they were looking for. A lot of the attendees talked about how learning technology is currently a valuable skill to have. I left inspired after the conference and signed up for classes at NWTC shortly after.
Sofia: I chose engineering because I wanted something that brings a new challenge and a new thing to learn almost every day. Since I was a kid, I enjoyed building stuff, and I was curious about how to make things work. Once I started college, I found out that electrical was the path for me to follow.
Are there any women in engineering – including at NWTC – who you look up to? Why are they important to you?
Lexie: I wouldn't say I've had a specific role model in engineering, but I found inspiration in Molly Delsart, my automation instructor. Seeing her excel in her career was motivating. She held me to high standards, pushed me to think creatively, and encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone.
Hannah: There are countless inspiring women in engineering, including those at NWTC, who have made a lasting impact on my journey. While it would take too long to name them all, I particularly admire those who encourage growth by allowing you to struggle through challenges, trusting that you'll find a solution. That kind of mentorship – though sometimes frustrating – helps build confidence, reinforces problem-solving skills, and proves that others believe in your abilities. It's a powerful way to learn and grow in the field.
Jakeh: Hedy Lamarr is an engineering role model who inspires me because she overcame many obstacles in a field that dismissed women's intelligence. Hedy Lamarr was a self-taught inventor during World War II. She co-created frequency-hopping technology which is the foundation of modern Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS. Hedy Lamarr received no recognition at the time because of sexism in STEM. The Navy patented her work without crediting her, and the scientific community ignored her contributions simply because she was a woman.
Sofia: Sandra Cauffman. She is an electrical engineer lead at NASA, and she was born and raised in Costa Rica. Around the 1980s she was denied the chance to study electrical engineering, so she moved to the U.S., and now she’s an outstanding figure in the field. I look up to her as an example to look for a window when a door is closed.
How do you think the engineering field is evolving for women, and where do you see opportunities for growth?
Lexie: Workplaces are becoming more accustomed to seeing women in traditionally male-dominated roles. Many companies have introduced or improved policies that support women in engineering, creating more opportunities for growth and leadership.
Hannah: The engineering field is evolving rapidly, creating more opportunities than ever for those who are driven and committed to their craft. Success comes from determination and a strong work ethic – the possibilities for growth are endless.
Jakeh: There are many STEM scholarships and networking events for women and girls now. From my experience, people are a lot more open about women engineers. While the number of women in engineering has increased, I would like to see more women in the STEM field. Especially in leadership roles or as CEOs!
Sofia: I feel like the industry sector I work in values more if you can actually do the job and what you know and want to learn, rather than if you’re a girl or a boy.
What’s one thing you wish more people knew about being a woman in engineering?
Lexie: I wish people understood that we are just as capable – strength isn't limited by gender. We can turn a wrench just as well as anyone else.
Hannah: One thing I wish more people knew is that engineering isn’t as complicated or intimidating as it might seem. Success in engineering isn’t about gender – it’s about skill, determination, and problem-solving. Being willing to tackle challenges head-on, adapt, and learn is what truly matters. At the end of the day, the respect you earn comes from the work you do.
Sofia: It’s not impossible. If you show up with a positive attitude and willingness to learn, work, and collaborate, it’s going to be alright.
What advice would you give to young women who are thinking about a career in engineering?
Lexie: Be confident in yourself. I've sometimes struggled with staying quiet or hesitating to engage in conversations, but I've learned that being involved makes the day more productive and enjoyable.
Hannah: For those looking for a career in trades and engineering, don't hesitate to explore new opportunities and ask questions. If you are preparing to graduate high school or have already graduated and are looking for a career change, consider a technical college. An associate degree can lead to a successful, rewarding, and well-paying career.
Jakeh: Some advice I would give to other young women is to pursue STEM. Even if you don’t think you’re naturally gifted or smart enough. If it’s something you truly like and are willing to work for, go for it. I was nervous about entering STEM because I knew nothing about engineering technology and wasn’t the best at math. I struggled a lot at first, but I’m so glad I chose electro-mechanical technology despite my fears.
Sofia: Just to go for it. Don’t listen to people who say it’s not appropriate or that it’s not a girl's job. Because girls are great engineers and there is a world full of opportunities out there.
What are your plans now that you’ve graduated from NWTC?
Lexie: I chose to attend NWTC in part because of the scholarship I received, which led to an opportunity to work at Billerud, a paper mill in Quinnesec, Mich. Per my contract, I'll be working there for at least three years, and I hope to continue growing with the company beyond that.
Hannah: Since graduating from the Biomedical Electronics program at NWTC, I was able to secure a job with Mayo Clinic, which became an exciting and fulfilling opportunity. NWTC’s strong industry connections and hands-on approach made a significant difference in preparing me for success, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the experience.
Jakeh: My plan after graduating is to get my Automation Technology degree from NWTC. Then I'll pursue a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering at an engineering school. My goal is to gain experience while I am at college through engineering clubs, internships, and networking events. After I graduate with my degree, I will get a full-time job.
Sofia: I will be working in process control and instrumentation and joining a four-year school to get my bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. I want to become a process control engineer and eventually get my professional engineer license.
